On a crisp autumn day, November 3rd, 1955, in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, William and Claire Miller celebrated a new chapter in their lives with the birth of their fourth child, William Richard Miller. In the tapestry of their bustling family, young William soon became affectionately known as “Skip,” a nickname lovingly bestowed upon him when he turned two, inspired by a whimsical birthday card that read, “Ahoy, Skipper!”

In the lively Miller household, Skip quickly emerged as the spirited middle child among six siblings, infusing laughter and mischief into their daily life. His penchant for pranks became a hallmark of family lore, with his most infamous antic being the sudden splash of ice water on an unsuspecting sibling during a steamy shower. This playful spirit now resides in his grandson, Noah, who carries on his ‘Pop Pop’s’ legacy of laughter and light-hearted trickery.

As Skip grew, his energy knew no bounds. At twelve, he dove headfirst into the world of business with a paper route, not just delivering news but also a dose of his infectious charm to every doorstep. On the high school stage, he dazzled in lead roles in Wickliffe High School's musicals and excelled as a star player on the basketball court.

Throughout Skip's life, his deep connection with theater and music was evident, and he enthusiastically shared these passions with his loved ones. His vibrant love for the arts is now beautifully mirrored in his granddaughter Riley, whose musical and dance talents are not just a showcase of her skills, but a lively tribute to her ‘Pop Pop’s’ enduring legacy.

Professionally, Skip’s journey was marked by both ambition and resilience. After graduating from Cleveland State University, he landed a pivotal role at McDonnell Douglas, laying the groundwork for a career that would later see him ascend to the role of VP of North America Sales at DataQuest. Determined to take charge of his destiny, Skip founded M3 Learning the day before his 40th birthday.

At M3 Learning, Skip revolutionized the sales world. As a seven-time pioneering author, he imparted his unique ProActive Selling™ methodology to over 300,000 sales professionals across the globe, spanning hundreds of companies and over 35 countries. His approach, emphasizing tactical selling and proactive sales cycle control, marked a new era in sales training.

Skip's life was a mosaic of many roles: a brother, a son, the life of the party, a groundbreaking author, and a successful business owner. Among these, his most cherished role was that of a family man. His unwavering "family first" philosophy was the cornerstone of his happiness and purpose. Skip was the father who never missed a moment, the man who would traverse any distance to be there for his family.

He will be fondly remembered for the joy he brought to his family especially through the cherished Sunday dinners and the annual Miller Family Clambakes, a legacy set to continue for generations.

An enthusiastic golfer and athlete, Skip’s impressively quick play on the golf course left fellow golfers both winded and amused. In every moment, from the playful echoes of laughter around the family table in a game of Liar’s Dice to the impromptu finger football matches that he would craft from a napkin at a restaurant, Skip’s competitive spirit was a testament to his belief in the power of challenging ourselves. His unwavering dedication to fostering a spirit of excellence, not just in games but in all of life, inspired us all to be sharper and more resilient while striving for our personal best.

Skip met the love of his life, Susan, while working together in 2003. Their love story culminated in a picturesque wedding on September 9, 2006, at Pebble Beach Golf Links in California. In the twilight of his life, Skip shared a profoundly touching moment with Susan, gifting her an eternity ring—a symbol of their everlasting love.

On December 28, 2023, Skip passed away peacefully after a valiant 10-month battle with pancreatic cancer, surrounded by the love of his wife and children. Predeceased by his parents, Claire and Bill, and his eldest sister Nancy, Skip leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. He is survived by his adoring wife and soulmate, Susan; his children, Kyle Miller (Crystal), Brianna Cooper (Ryan), and Alex Marnewick (Charl); his treasured grandchildren, Riley and Noah; his siblings, Ronnie, Kami, Kurt, and Heidi; and a bevy of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Skip's life was a journey of love, laughter, and inspiration, a journey that touched and transformed many lives. His legacy will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Family, friends and business associates are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service for Skip which will be held at Church of the Recessional in Forest Lawn Glendale on Thursday, January 18th beginning at 1:00 pm

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